How should classified documents be disposed of when no longer necessary?

Classified documents must be disposed of securely to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. The appropriate method involves shredding or incinerating them according to established policies. This ensures that the documents cannot be reconstructed or accessed by individuals who do not have the proper clearance or need-to-know, thus maintaining the integrity of national security protocols.

Disposing of classified materials in regular trash or recycling bins poses a significant security risk, as these methods do not adequately protect against potential retrieval by unauthorized individuals. Passing them to a colleague for review is also inappropriate, as it does not constitute secure disposal. Proper disposal measures not only comply with government regulations but also safeguard against potential breaches of sensitive information.